Bangladeshi Helper Pre-departure & Arrival Guide
From Bangladesh to Hong Kong, follow the steps for documents, health, packing, arrival day, first-week procedures and everyday life.
Before Departure Checklist
Make sure the items below are ready before the helper departs, so arrival procedures go smoothly.
Documents & Paperwork
- Valid passport with at least 6 months validity.
- Original employment contract (ID 407) signed by both employer and helper.
- Hong Kong work visa / entry permit for employment.
- Bangladesh government exit clearance and related documents arranged by the agency.
- Keep photocopies and a scanned backup on your phone for easy reference.
Health & Medical
- Complete the pre-departure medical exam at a government-approved hospital (includes chest X-ray, infectious disease and pregnancy tests).
- Get any required vaccinations and bring the vaccination record.
- Pack a small personal first-aid kit with regular medication and any doctor's prescription copies.
Money & Communication
- Bring a small amount of Hong Kong dollars (HKD) for the first few days' transport and meals.
- Activate international roaming or prepare a way to contact family on arrival.
- Keep the employer's Hong Kong phone number and agency contact saved in the phone.
Packing & Personal Items
- Pack light, seasonal clothing; Hong Kong summers are hot and humid, winters are mild.
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and indoor slippers if preferred.
- Carry personal hygiene items, religious items, and a few photos of family for comfort.
- Check airline baggage limits before packing.
After Arrival Adaptation
The first few weeks after arrival are the most important. Here is the step-by-step guide from arrival day to daily life.
Day 1: Arrival & Pick-up
- The agency or employer's representative will meet you at the airport and guide you through arrival procedures.
- Collect luggage and proceed through Hong Kong Immigration with your passport and visa.
- Travel to the employer's home or the agency's office for initial briefing.
- Rest after the flight and ask questions if anything is unclear.
First Week in Hong Kong
- Apply for a Hong Kong Identity Card within 30 days of arrival.
- Complete the post-arrival medical check required by the Immigration Department.
- Open a local bank account or obtain a stored-value card for transport and daily expenses.
- Get a local SIM card or mobile plan so you can stay in touch with family and the agency.
Daily Life & Adaptation
- Get a tour of the home: bedroom, kitchen, appliances, emergency exits, and daily routines.
- Learn the family's cooking style, dietary restrictions, and household rules.
- Practise basic Cantonese/English phrases every day; use a translation app if needed.
- Explore the neighbourhood: wet market, supermarket, MTR station, and nearby clinic.
Rights, Rest & Support
- You are entitled to 1 rest day every 7 days. Rest days should be agreed and recorded.
- You are entitled to 14 statutory holidays per year after serving the required period.
- Annual leave increases with service length (7 days after 12 months, rising to a maximum of 14 days).
- If you face problems, contact the Labour Department, your agency, or a helper support organisation.
How Employers and Helpers Can Work Together
Set clear expectations from day one: duties, rest days, house rules and communication style.
Be patient during the first 2–4 weeks while the helper learns the household routine and local food.
Encourage the helper to ask questions and give kind, clear feedback.
Respect legal rights: rest days, statutory holidays, annual leave and fair treatment.
EA Licence No.: 83180
Makarios Employment Agency Limited is a Hong Kong Labour Department licensed employment agency (EA Licence No. 83180). All services follow the Code of Practice for Employment Agencies and the Employment Ordinance. You may verify our licence on the Labour Department website (eeas.labour.gov.hk).
Need Help With the Process?
Makarios can guide you through every step — from document preparation to your helper's first month in Hong Kong.